2026 Renault Duster To Launch Soon: What To Look Out For?

The launch of a new generation Renault Duster in India is just around the corners. Slated to launch on 26 January, the Duster nameplate will be making its comeback almost four years after the original first-gen model got discontinued. Renault skipped the second-gen model of the Duster in India which made its international debut in 2019.

Launched in 2012, the original Renault Duster played a key role in popularising the monocoque SUV configuration, blending car-like comfort with rugged capability. Over the last year or so, test mules of the third-gen Duster have been spotted testing frequently. With less than ten days until the official India debut, here’s what to look out for in the new-gen Renault Duster.

2026 Renault Duster: Exterior Design

The India-spec Renault Duster will receive some unique touches in order to distinguish itself from its international counterpart. For instance, the India–spec Duster will flaunt a pair of sleek LED headlights with eyebrow-shaped LED daytime running lamps (DRLs). Spy images have suggested the inclusion of a camera module near the centre of the front grille. This should mean the inclusion of a 360-degree camera feature. 

Positioned below the grille, the front bumper features a three-slatted air intake, a wide lower air dam, and redesigned fog lamps on both sides. Up front, the international-spec  Duster is set to receive a sleek front bumper that features heavy cladding, wide air intakes and circular fog lamps, while the sculpted bonnet adds to its muscular appearance. 

Earlier spy shots indicate that the model will feature vertically oriented LED taillamps instead of the distinctive V-shaped units seen on the global version. Another minor change is the roof-mounted spoiler, which adopts a notched design and appears slightly different from the internationally available unit. 

The India-spec Duster is also expected to receive a connected LED taillamp setup, a feature not offered on the European-market model. Meanwhile, several exterior elements are likely to be retained from the international version, including pronounced wheel-arch cladding, a shark-fin antenna, roof rails, a rear washer and wiper, and a steeply raked windshield.

2026 Renault Duster: Interiors & Features

While the India-spec Renault Duster’s interior has not yet been revealed, it is expected to adopt a modern yet utilitarian layout, similar to the international model. The next-generation Duster is expected to offer an extensive range of modern features, such as a 10-inch freestanding touchscreen with wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto, a three-spoke multifunction steering wheel, wireless smartphone charging, dual-zone climate control, a panoramic sunroof, a 7-inch digital instrument display, and a premium six-speaker sound system.

2026 Renault Duster: Powertrain

In global markets, the third-generation Renault Duster is available with multiple powertrain choices. These include a 1.2-litre turbo-petrol engine paired with a 48V mild-hybrid system producing 128.2 bhp, as well as a 1.6-litre strong-hybrid petrol powertrain featuring two electric motors and a 1.2 kWh battery, with a combined output of 138 bhp. 

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The range also includes a 1.0-litre petrol-LPG unit developing 98.6 bhp, offered with a six-speed gearbox and an all-wheel-drive setup. Details of the engine and transmission options for the India-spec version, however, have not yet been announced.